A 55-year-old male patient with a history of alcoholism presents to the emergency department during winter with slurred speech, confusion, and a rectal temperature of 34.4°C (93.9°F). He was found outdoors by a passerby. Which of the following is the most appropriate initial management for this patient?
Gradual rewarming using warm blankets and a controlled environment
Immediate immersion in a warm bath to quickly raise core temperature
Administration of room temperature intravenous fluids to maintain hydration
The patient is presenting with symptoms consistent with mild to moderate hypothermia. Gradual rewarming with blankets and a controlled environment is appropriate to avoid rapid vasodilation and potential hypotension. Warming methods such as heated IV fluids and airway rewarming are generally reserved for moderate to severe hypothermia with a temperature below 32°C (89.6°F). Active external rewarming such as a warm bath can lead to afterdrop, where cold peripheral blood returns to the central circulation, further decreasing core temperature and leading to worsening hypothermia. Preventing further heat loss is crucial, but will not treat the existing hypothermia.
Ask Bash
Bash is our AI bot, trained to help you pass your exam. AI Generated Content may display inaccurate information, always double-check anything important.
What are the symptoms of mild to moderate hypothermia?
Open an interactive chat with Bash
Why is gradual rewarming preferred over immediate immersion in a warm bath?
Open an interactive chat with Bash
What are the dangers of using warm IV fluids for rewarming?
Open an interactive chat with Bash
BCEN CEN
Environment and Toxicology Emergencies, and Communicable Diseases
Your Score:
Report Issue
Bash, the Crucial Exams Chat Bot
AI Bot
Loading...
Loading...
Loading...
Nursing and Medical Assistants Package Join Premium for Full Access